How to do a Breast Self-Exam (BSE)

A breast self-examination (BSE) is a technique which allows an individual to examine his/her breast tissue for any physical or visual changes. It is often used as an early detection method for breast cancer. Both men and women should perform a BSE at least once each month beginning at age 18.

Breast Self-Exam Tips

Do your BSE at the end of your monthly period.

If you are pregnant, no longer have periods or your period is irregular, choose a specific day each month.

This should not be performed in the shower or with lotion on your skin or fingers.

If you find a lump or notice other unusual changes, Don’t panic. About 80% of lumps found are not cancerous. See your doctor promptly for further evaluation.

How to do a Breast Self-Exam Part 1: TOUCH

Check the OUTER HALF of your right breast. Lie down and roll on to your left side to examine your right breast. Place your right hand, palm up on your forehead. Your breast should lie as flat on your chest as possible. It may be easier and more comfortable if you put a pillow behind your shoulder or back.

Using the flat pads of your three middle fingers—not the tips—move the pads of your fingers in little circles, about the size of a dime. For each little circle, change the amount of pressure so you can feel ALL levels of your breast tissue. Make each circle three times—once light, once medium, and once deep—before you move on to the next area.

Start the circles in your armpit and move down to just below the bra line. Then slide your fingers over—just the width of one finger and move up again. Don’t lift your fingers from your breast as you move them to make sure you feel the entire area. Continue this up-and-down vertical strip pattern—from your collarbone to just below your bra line—until you reach the nipple.

Check the INNER HALF of your right breast. When you reach the nipple, remove pillow and roll on to your back, remove your hand from your forehead and place this arm at a right angle (see drawing). Carefully check the nipple area using the same circular pressures as before, without squeezing. Then examine the remaining breast tissue using the up-and-down vertical strip pattern, until you reach the middle of your chest. Place your non-palpating hand down at your side, make a row of circles above and below your collarbone, working from your shoulder to your mid-line.

Roll on to your right side and repeat these steps on your left breast, using your right hand.

How to do a Breast Self-Exam Part 2: LOOK

Stand in front of a mirror and look closely at your breasts in the following three positions, viewing from the right and left as well as facing forward. Check for changes in the following:

Shape: Compare one to the other. One breast may normally be larger than the other, but sudden changes in size should not occur.